BLESSING BOX FULL OF BEANS

Blessing boxes are springing up all over the country, and are certainly a blessing for the homeless and other impoverished Americans.  When you see men and women trying on clothing in the street next to a box, you know that there are many people who lack the basics.  We have several boxes in our city, but I just saw my first one up close, in the local mall.  However, its contents were disappointing, because that Blessing Box was full of beans.

The last time I walked in the mall was late March, before the pandemic began to spiral out of control. But since then,  they’ve lost a major retailer. The hallways are practically deserted, especially at the far end, next to the depressingly empty store.   Therefore, it seems like a relatively safe place to walk on the cold windy days ahead.   All the walkers you see are wearing masks, and they keep their distance.  Many are elderly.  Anyway, sometime over the summer or fall, they’ve added a Blessing Box.

The problem could be that few people are aware that the mall has a box.  But for those who do, they seem to think that black beans, especially, would be a good filler.  Now, I’m all for black beans.  They’re a great source of protein.  They’re especially appealing to vegans and Hispanics.  But if 80% of the offerings are either red beans or black beans,   it seems rather bleak. I’m envisioning some hungry little kids staring at a bowl of black beans.   Most ordinary Hoosier’s aren’t too fond of them.

Blessing box full of beans doesn't offer much. Try adding some canned meat.
Try to add some variety. Don’t just leave a blessing box full of beans.

There are many items that are good for food banks. Today, I ‘m going to stock up on some canned meat, tuna,  and peanut butter. Maybe some evaporated milk.   I’ll bring in a small bag, and add to the collections a few cans at a time.  Maybe that will inspire others to do the same.   If an un needy person takes the good stuff, that’s their moral issue,  not mine.

Blessing boxes were started a few years ago, in the low country.  While they’re a great idea, it’s sad to think there are so many people who rely on them for food and clothing.  But let’s  leave some good stuff in the boxes, not assume that needy people.  have no taste for anything but beans.

 

TAKE A MOTHER’S DAY BREAK FROM COVID-19

It’s been almost two months since we’ve been in this pandemic.  We’re worn out, and depressed.  But just for today, why not take a Mother’s Day Break from Covid-19.  Give yourself a time out from from your worries , and focus on the good things that are happening. 

Here are 9  things to celebrate today:

Gas prices are low.   I’ve not filled my gas tank since March 15.  And when I do, it’s going to be a pleasant surprise when I see the final bill.

No school shootings.  Since schools are closed, we don’t have to see or hear about kids killing kids.

No new middle eastern conflicts.  Worldwide virus outbreaks have incapacitated most of our enemies.

Reconnecting with families.  Kids and parents are getting to spend more time together.  Getting to know each other. Playing games. Cooking.  Bicycling. Going to parks.

Spring weather. Yes, we had a cold blast.  But the trees are leafing out, there’s greenery everywhere. If you have a garden, you can start putting out annuals.

Kindness of strangers.  When you walk in the park, everyone you encounter smiles and waves.  That didn’t used to happen.  And look at the food banks all over the country.  People reaching out to help families in need.

Take a Mother's Day Break. Be grateful for the kindness of strangers.
TAKE A MOTHER’S DAY BREAK FROM COVID-19. BE GRATEFUL FOR THE KINDNESS OF STRANGERS.

Low credit card bills.  We were shocked to receive our Visa statement this month.  It was less than half what it normally is.  That’s what happens when you don’t go anywhere, eat out, or shop in malls.

Stimulus money and unemployment checks.  Lots of folks actually are enjoying more income than they had when they were working.

Wellness.  99% of Americans do not have Covid-19.  So if you’re healthy and well, celebrate that today.  You’ve done a good job of hand washing, mask wearing, and social distancing.

Things to avoid:

Watching or listening to the news .  Take a break from alarmist news reporters who like to get you worked up and scared about what’s going on in our country.

Negative thoughts.  When something unpleasant enters your mind, don’t dwell on it.  As an example, what if you get the virus?  As long as you’re following CDC guidelines, that’s all you can do.  If you do get sick, it won’t be because you were careless.  Don’t spend today worrying about it.  Take a few deep breaths. Listen to some music. Take a walk.  Call a loved one.

Just for today, take a break from Covid-19.  Happy Mother’s Day!.